Over nine decades, the Code has grown in meaningfulness, sentimentality, and value, becoming a shining symbol of integrity, pride, and professionalism. For the Code to remain vital, it must be polished—reviewed constantly in light of changing practices, business models, consumer expectations, and technologies.

A cooperating broker isn’t required to obtain the listing broker’s permission to advertise a property as sold unless the property hasn’t closed. After closing, there’s no restriction on posting such a sign, though the co-op broker should do so only with the new owner’s permission.

Your participation in your planning and zoning process fulfills your patriotic and social responsibility as long as there’s no conflict. A conflict would arise if you had an ownership interest in a project that you’re planning or zoning board was reviewing. An issue could also could arise if you represented a developer or builder who proposed a project to the planning or zoning board on which you sit.

If advertising leads a reasonable reader to believe that the property is located in Princeton when it isn’t, that’s not a true picture. But if the ad says something like “near Princeton,” it’s probably fine. Ad copy should honestly describe a property.

Often, we believe unethical interference occurred in these types of circumstances. We think we—not the person who was paid—are entitled to the commission. The key is to investigate and decide whether there’s an ethics complaint or arbitration request to pursue.

If your offer wasn’t submitted, that’s a violation of Article 1 of the Code, which requires REALTORS® to treat all parties to a transaction honestly. If you believe your offer hasn’t been given a fair shake, you can file an ethics complaint with your local association.

Rather than wait until the deadline is looming, why not take the time now to reacquaint yourself with and rededicate yourself to the Code and what it stands for? The time you spend with the Code will be time well spent.